Studied in England. Returned to Virginia
(1752). Sat in the House of Burgesses
(1758-75).

Served in Congress (1774-79) and from
1784 until the adoption of the present United
States Constitution (which he opposed). United
States Senator from Virginia (1788-92).

In his capacity as a member of congressional
committees of secret correspondence and foreign
affairs, Lee corresponded with Franklin during
the American Revolution. The two were not
friends, largely because of poor relations
between Franklin and Lee’s brothers, Arthur
and William.